Motorcycle Repair: Honda Shadow, honda shadow, dip stick

Question
Hi... we were checking the oil on my husbands Honda Shadow and when he removed the dip stick the oil started pouring out onto the pavement. This bike has been sitting all winter and we are getting it ready to ride. Why would it do this?

Answer
Michelle, I think if you smelled the oil, it would smell like gas.  It's a good practice to shut the fuel petcock off over the winter to prevent fuel from leaking through the carbs into the cylinders and down into the crankcase.  You'll just need to change the oil and filter and things will be alright.  

Regards
Rich